So if you're a competitive local runner who feels like you need to go out of town to find good races, New Orleans Running System's Chuck George would like to change that.

George's company will be offering a new racing series in the New Orleans Area, called the South Louisiana Running Series beginning in the spring that will offer prize money to the winner.

The series will begin in January with a new half marathon, the Louisiana Riverfront Half-Marathon and will end with the Crescent City Fall Classic.

2012 South Louisiana Running Series

Jan.: Louisiana Riverfront Half Marathon

Feb.: Run on the Bayou

March: United Way Miss. River Bridge Run

Apr.: A Run Through History

May: Fat Boy 5K

June: Northshore Shorts Run

July: Four on the Fourth

Sept.: Elmwood Twilight Classic

Oct.: Chalmette Track Club Annual Run

Nov. Middendorf's Manchac Run

Nov.: Crescent City Fall Classic

“I believe we have a lot of good runners in South Louisiana. A few local races have prize money, but I wanted to set up a series of races where runners can compete for prize money," George said. "If we can get some money for those runners to be able to compete in national races, that’s good.

“When you ad a series with prize money, it will turn some heads and spark some interest. I hope it will get more elite runners to participate in local races. I hope we see it grow so we can add more prize money next year."

To score points in the series, you simply have to participate. But, you have to participate in the feature race, so in the case of the Louisiana Riverfront Half Marathon, there is a 5K race. But you have to run the half to score points.

“To score points, you have to run in the feature race," George said. "The reason for this is you’ll have to participate in everything from a 2-mile to a half marathon and we’ll get a better overall quality winner."

There is $6,000 for the series awards. Presenting sponsors are Crescent City Physical Therapy, Parish Insurance, Herman, Herman, Katz & Cotlar

“Some local clubs have series, but those are for club members only," he said. "This
goes beyond that. If you run in one of these races, you’ll score
points."

First place in the open division will get $750, first in masters will get $250 and first in grand masters and senior will get $150.